Tenanted pensioners to receive ex-gratia payments

19 March, 2015

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk today announced that eligible residents of the Brisbane Gateway Resort at Rochedale would receive ex-gratia payments following the property owners’ withdrawal from the tenanted pensioner remission scheme.

The owners, Haraba Pty Ltd, of the property located at 200 School Road, had been receiving a rebate on rates with the provision that the benefits would be passed on to eligible tenants living at the property.

Deputy Mayor and local Councillor (Chandler Ward) Adrian Schrinner said that due to a recent decision made by the property owners not to participate in the scheme Council would take action to support the residents living at the property.

“The owners of the Brisbane Gateway Resort have recently withdrawn from the tenanted pensioner remission scheme, placing increased pressure on its residents who will no longer receive the benefits of the discounted rebate,” Cr Schrinner said.

“This means that from 1 April, no further pensioner remissions by Council will be provided to the owners for their distribution to eligible tenants.

“To compensate for this change, Council will be providing ex-gratia payments to the 33 eligible residents adversely impacted by the owners’ decision.”

Under section 11 of the City of Brisbane Act 2010, Council has general powers to do what is necessary or convenient for the good rule and local government of Brisbane.

Cr Schrinner said that the introduction of ex-gratia payments would provide much needed support to the tenants who are facing cost of living pressures..

“Under the tenanted pensioner remission scheme Brisbane pensioners, residing in retirement villages and caravan parks, may be entitled to a concession,” he said.

“Council grants a 40 per cent remission on rates up to a maximum of $225.25 per quarter for people on a full pension and 20 per cent remission on rates up to a maximum of $105 per quarter for people on part pensions.

“Brisbane pensioners receive the most generous discounts of any South East Queensland local government area on their rates bills and we also offer a generous remission on water and sewerage accounts capped at $472,” he said.

“Brisbane is the only SEQ local authority to help pensioners meet their water and sewerage bills.

“This ex-gratia payment will be apportioned to eligible residents based on whether they are currently receiving full pension or part pension.”